How to Visit Denver Film Festival

The Denver Film Festival is one of the most prestigious and culturally rich cinematic events in the American Rocky Mountain region. Established in 1978, it has grown into a 12-day celebration of independent, international, and documentary filmmaking, drawing tens of thousands of cinephiles, industry professionals, and casual moviegoers each November. More than just a series of screenings, the festival offers panel discussions, filmmaker Q&As, immersive installations, and exclusive premieres that shape the conversation around modern storytelling. For visitors—whether first-timers or seasoned attendees—knowing how to navigate the festival effectively can transform a simple outing into a deeply rewarding cultural experience.

Visiting the Denver Film Festival is not merely about purchasing a ticket and showing up. It requires strategic planning, an understanding of venue logistics, awareness of scheduling nuances, and familiarity with local resources that enhance the overall experience. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you maximize your time, avoid common pitfalls, and fully immerse yourself in the magic of one of the nation’s most vibrant film festivals.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Determine Your Visit Dates and Duration

The Denver Film Festival typically runs for 12 days in late October through mid-November. Exact dates vary slightly each year, so begin by visiting the official Denver Film website to confirm the current year’s schedule. Once you have the dates, decide how long you plan to stay. Many attendees opt for a long weekend, but those seeking a deeper experience often extend their visit to cover the full duration.

Consider your goals: Are you attending for a few standout premieres? Are you interested in industry panels? Do you want to explore multiple genres? Your objectives will influence how many days you need. For example, if you’re focused on documentaries, you may want to allocate more time for screenings in that category, which often sell out faster due to high demand and limited seating.

2. Create a Festival Account

Before you begin purchasing tickets or reserving seats, you must create a free account on the Denver Film website. This account is your gateway to all festival functions: ticketing, scheduling, waitlist access, and personalized recommendations. Use a reliable email address that you check regularly, as important updates—including schedule changes, venue shifts, and last-minute cancellations—are sent exclusively via email.

During registration, you’ll be asked to provide basic information such as your name, contact details, and zip code. You may also be prompted to select your preferred genres or film categories. This helps the system tailor your viewing suggestions and notify you of relevant screenings. Even if you don’t plan to use recommendations, completing this step ensures full access to all features.

3. Choose Your Ticket Type

The Denver Film Festival offers several ticketing options designed for different types of attendees:

• Individual Tickets: Single-entry tickets for one screening. These are ideal for casual visitors or those attending only a few films.
• 10-Punch Pass: A cost-effective option for frequent attendees. Each punch grants entry to one screening, and you can use them across any film or venue.
• Gold Pass: The most comprehensive option. Grants unlimited access to all regular screenings (excluding special events), priority seating, and early access to ticket sales. Highly recommended for serious film lovers.
• Student Pass: Discounted passes for current students with valid ID. Offers the same benefits as the Gold Pass at a reduced rate.
• Industry Pass: Designed for filmmakers, distributors, and professionals. Includes access to exclusive networking events and industry panels.

Passes typically go on sale several weeks before the festival begins and sell out quickly. If you’re serious about attending multiple films, secure your pass as soon as it becomes available. Individual tickets are released in batches and can be purchased closer to the event, but popular screenings often sell out within hours.

4. Plan Your Screening Schedule

Once you’ve purchased your tickets or pass, the next step is to build your personal schedule. The festival screens over 200 films across 10+ venues, with multiple showings per day. Use the online scheduler tool on the Denver Film website to filter films by genre, director, runtime, venue, and accessibility options.

When selecting films, consider the following:

• Start with must-see premieres: Look for films with festival buzz, award potential, or notable directors. These often have the highest demand.
• Balance your pacing: Avoid back-to-back screenings unless they’re in the same venue. Allow at least 45 minutes between showings to account for travel time, restroom breaks, and potential delays.
• Check for Q&A sessions: Many screenings include live or virtual Q&As with directors, actors, or producers. These are often held immediately after the film and are included in the same ticket.
• Look for themed blocks: The festival organizes films into curated programs such as “Women in Film,” “Global Voices,” or “Horror Unleashed.” These groupings offer a richer context and are often more affordable as bundled tickets.

Pro tip: Use the “Watchlist” feature to save films you’re considering. You can compare showtimes, read synopses, and check audience ratings before committing. The scheduler will also alert you to conflicts and suggest optimal sequences.

5. Reserve Your Seats

Unlike traditional theaters, the Denver Film Festival uses a reserved seating system for most screenings. This means you must select your exact seat when purchasing your ticket or after buying a pass. Seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, so timing matters.

For Gold Pass holders, early access to seat selection opens 48 hours before the general public. Take advantage of this window to secure the best seats—center rows, middle of the theater, or aisle seats for comfort. If you’re attending with a group, select seats together early to avoid being split up.

If you’re using individual tickets, you’ll be prompted to choose a seat during checkout. If your preferred time slot is sold out, consider alternative showings. Many films screen multiple times across different venues, so you may find a similar experience at a less crowded location.

6. Understand Venue Locations and Logistics

The festival utilizes a network of venues across downtown Denver and nearby neighborhoods. Key locations include:

• Starz FilmCenter: The festival’s main hub, located in the Denver Performing Arts Complex. Home to the largest screens and most high-profile premieres.
• Mayan Theater: A historic venue with a unique Art Deco interior, often used for indie features and documentaries.
• Regency Village Theatre: A modern multiplex with comfortable seating and excellent sound, ideal for mainstream indie films.
• Denver Central Library: Hosts intimate screenings and panel discussions in a quiet, intellectual setting.
• St. John’s Cathedral: Occasionally used for immersive or experimental films, offering a rare cinematic experience in a sacred space.

Each venue has different parking, public transit access, and entry protocols. Before your visit, review the venue map on the Denver Film website. Download offline maps and note the nearest light rail stations (such as the 16th Street Mall stop or the Auraria Campus stop). Many venues are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to attend multiple screenings in one day.

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled screening, especially if it’s your first time at a venue. Late entry is not guaranteed, and many films begin promptly at the listed time.

7. Prepare for the Experience

Bring the essentials: a valid photo ID (required for student and industry passes), your digital or printed ticket confirmation, a reusable water bottle (many venues have refill stations), and a light jacket (theaters are often cool). Avoid large bags—most venues have limited storage, and security checks can slow entry.

Download the official Denver Film Festival app. It provides real-time updates, push notifications for schedule changes, venue maps, and live streaming links for virtual screenings. The app also includes a social feed where attendees share reviews and recommendations, helping you discover hidden gems.

Consider downloading offline subtitles or closed captioning files if you require accessibility support. The festival offers open captioning and audio description for select screenings—check the film’s details page for icons indicating these options.

8. Engage Beyond the Screenings

The Denver Film Festival is more than movies. Attend the opening and closing night galas, filmmaker brunches, and industry panels. These events often feature renowned directors, producers, and critics discussing trends in cinema, distribution challenges, and the future of storytelling.

Many panels are free to attend with a festival pass, but some require separate registration. Mark these on your calendar and arrive early—seating is limited. The “Film & Food” series, which pairs screenings with local cuisine tastings, is another popular addition that blends culture and culinary art.

Don’t overlook the “Spotlight” exhibits. Each year, the festival curates visual installations, photography displays, and interactive media related to featured films. These are often located in public spaces like the Denver Central Library or the Ellie Caulkins Opera House lobby and are open to all attendees during festival hours.

9. Navigate Crowds and Waitlists

Popular screenings often sell out quickly. If your desired film is fully booked, join the waitlist through the app or website. Waitlists operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and you’ll be notified via email or app alert if a seat opens up.

Arrive at the venue 30–45 minutes before the screening if you’re on a waitlist. Staff will call names in order, and you’ll have a limited window (usually 5–10 minutes) to claim your seat. Many attendees on waitlists successfully gain entry, especially for midday or weekday screenings.

Also, be aware of “No Show” policies. If you don’t check in for your reserved seat 10 minutes before the film starts, your ticket may be released to the waitlist. Always confirm your attendance in the app if your plans change.

10. Post-Festival Follow-Up

After the festival ends, many films are released for wider distribution or streaming. Use the festival’s “Where to Watch” tool, available on each film’s page, to find legal streaming platforms, DVD releases, or upcoming theater runs in your area.

Consider joining the Denver Film Society as a member. Membership supports the festival year-round and includes discounts on future events, early access to ticket sales, and invitations to exclusive screenings and filmmaker meetups.

Finally, leave a review on the festival’s website or social media. Your feedback helps shape future programming and supports the community of independent filmmakers who rely on audience engagement.

Best Practices

Plan Ahead, But Stay Flexible

While it’s essential to map out your schedule, rigid planning can lead to missed opportunities. The festival is dynamic—films may be added, removed, or rescheduled due to technical issues or last-minute guest availability. Keep at least one open window each day for spontaneous discoveries. Some of the most memorable experiences come from films you didn’t plan to see.

Use the “Festival Favorites” List

Each year, the Denver Film team compiles a curated list of “Festival Favorites”—films selected by programmers, critics, and past attendees as standout picks. These are often hidden gems that don’t get mainstream attention but deliver powerful storytelling. Prioritize these titles when building your schedule.

Travel Smart

Denver’s public transit system, RTD, is reliable and connects most festival venues. Purchase a Day Pass or use the RTD app to pay for rides. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, but surge pricing can spike during peak screening hours. Consider staying in a hotel near the 16th Street Mall or the Auraria Campus to minimize travel time.

Network Strategically

Whether you’re a filmmaker, student, or enthusiast, the festival is a prime opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Attend the “Meet the Filmmakers” receptions, participate in social media hashtags like

DenverFilmFest, and don’t hesitate to strike up conversations in line or at intermission. Many lasting professional and personal relationships begin in those casual moments.

Support Local

Denver’s food and beverage scene is integral to the festival experience. Many venues partner with local restaurants and breweries to offer themed snacks and drinks. Try a Colorado craft beer at the Mayan Theater bar or grab a bison burger from a food truck near the Starz FilmCenter. Supporting local vendors enhances your visit and strengthens the community.

Practice Film Etiquette

Respect the experience of others. Silence your phone completely—no notifications, no photos, no recordings. Avoid talking during films, even during quiet moments. If you need to leave, wait for the credits to roll or during scheduled intermissions. These simple courtesies ensure everyone can fully engage with the art on screen.

Stay Informed About Accessibility

The Denver Film Festival is committed to inclusivity. All venues are ADA-compliant, and accessible seating is available upon request. Audio description and open captioning are provided for select screenings—check the film’s details page for accessibility icons. If you require special accommodations, contact the festival’s accessibility coordinator via the website well in advance of your visit.

Document Your Experience

Take notes, snap photos of posters (no filming of screenings!), and journal your reactions. The festival offers a unique blend of emotion, intellect, and artistry. Capturing your thoughts helps you reflect on what moved you and why. You might even discover patterns in the types of stories that resonate with you.

Manage Your Energy

Attending multiple screenings in one day is exhilarating but exhausting. Schedule downtime. Grab coffee at a nearby café, take a walk through City Park, or visit the Denver Art Museum. Resting your eyes and mind between films improves your ability to absorb and appreciate each story.

Follow the Festival on Social Media

Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook are active during the festival with real-time updates, behind-the-scenes content, and surprise announcements. Following official accounts ensures you don’t miss pop-up events, free screenings, or last-minute ticket releases.

Tools and Resources

Official Denver Film Website

www.denverfilm.org is your central hub for schedules, ticketing, venue maps, filmmaker bios, and press materials. Bookmark this site and check it daily as updates are posted frequently.

Denver Film Festival App

Available for iOS and Android, the official app is indispensable. It syncs with your account, sends push notifications for schedule changes, and includes a built-in calendar. Use it to scan tickets at the door and access digital programs.

RTD Transit App

The Regional Transportation District’s app provides real-time bus and light rail schedules, fare calculators, and route planning. Download it before you arrive in Denver to navigate efficiently.

Google Maps Offline

Download offline maps of downtown Denver and the festival venue cluster. This ensures you can navigate even if your data connection is spotty during crowded events.

Letterboxd

Use Letterboxd to track the films you watch, write reviews, and discover what other attendees are saying. Many festival-goers maintain public lists of their Denver Film Festival selections, offering valuable insights.

IMDb Pro

For industry professionals or aspiring filmmakers, IMDb Pro provides access to cast and crew credits, production companies, and distribution details for festival films. This is especially useful when researching filmmakers you meet in person.

Local Weather Apps

Denver’s weather can shift rapidly, especially in November. Use AccuWeather or the Weather Channel app to monitor temperatures and precipitation. Layered clothing is recommended—indoor theaters are cool, while outdoor events may be chilly.

Denver Visitor Center

Located in Union Station, the visitor center offers free maps, brochures, and local recommendations. Staff can help you find restaurants, bike rentals, and cultural attractions near festival venues.

Podcasts and Blogs

Subscribe to “The Denver Film Podcast” or follow blogs like “Cinema Scope” and “IndieWire” for pre-festival coverage, interviews, and critical previews. These resources help you contextualize films before you see them.

Local Libraries and Bookstores

The Denver Public Library often hosts companion exhibits or reading lists tied to festival films. Visit the Central Library’s cinema section for books on directors, screenwriting, and film theory related to the festival’s lineup.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Attendee

Sarah, a 28-year-old teacher from Boulder, attended the Denver Film Festival for the first time with a 10-Punch Pass. She prioritized three films: a documentary about Indigenous land rights, a dark comedy from South Korea, and a local Colorado feature about mountain climbers.

She used the app to reserve seats for all three and arrived 45 minutes early to each screening. After the Korean film, she joined a Q&A and struck up a conversation with a filmmaker from Seoul. They exchanged Instagram handles and later collaborated on a short film project. Sarah also attended a free panel on “Cinema as Activism,” which inspired her to create a film unit for her high school class.

She ended her week with a visit to the “Colorado Stories” exhibit at the library and left with a renewed passion for storytelling. “I didn’t just watch movies,” she said. “I felt connected to something bigger.”

Example 2: The Industry Professional

Jamal, a film distributor from Los Angeles, attended with an Industry Pass. He used the festival to scout acquisitions, meeting with six emerging directors whose films were in competition. He attended three panels on streaming economics and networking receptions at the Starz FilmCenter.

One of the films he saw—a quiet drama about a refugee family in Nebraska—won the Audience Choice Award. He acquired distribution rights the next day. “The Denver Film Festival is where stories find their voice,” he said. “And sometimes, they find their audience.”

Example 3: The Student Explorer

Maria, a 20-year-old film student from Fort Collins, used her Student Pass to attend 18 screenings over 10 days. She focused on experimental films and student shorts, many of which were free to attend with her pass. She kept a journal, wrote reviews for her college newspaper, and interviewed two directors for her media studies capstone project.

She also volunteered at the Mayan Theater, helping with seating and ushering. In return, she received a complimentary Gold Pass for the following year. “Volunteering gave me access I wouldn’t have had otherwise,” she said. “And I met people who became mentors.”

Example 4: The Family Visitor

The Garcias, a family of four from Aurora, attended with a family package that included two adult and two youth tickets. They saw animated features, family-friendly documentaries, and a special screening of “The Muppet Movie” with a live orchestra.

They took advantage of the “Kids’ Corner” at the Starz FilmCenter, which offered crafts, coloring stations, and short films designed for younger viewers. “We didn’t just go to the movies,” said their daughter, 10. “We made a whole weekend of it.”

FAQs

Can I buy tickets at the door?

Yes, but only if screenings haven’t sold out. Popular films rarely have walk-up availability. It’s far more reliable to purchase tickets in advance through the official website or app.

Are children allowed at all screenings?

Most screenings are open to all ages unless marked as “18+” or “R-rated.” Family-friendly films are clearly labeled. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need to print my tickets?

No. Digital tickets on your phone are accepted at all venues. Ensure your device is charged and the app is updated.

Is parking available at all venues?

Most venues offer paid parking, but spaces are limited. Public transit, biking, and ride-sharing are strongly recommended. Valet parking is available at select locations for an additional fee.

Can I bring food and drinks into the theaters?

Outside food and beverages are not permitted. However, each venue has concession stands offering snacks, coffee, and alcoholic drinks. Some venues also allow you to order food to your seat during the film.

What if I miss a screening?

If you miss your scheduled screening, your ticket is non-refundable and non-transferable. However, if you’re on a waitlist for another film, you may be able to swap your ticket—contact the box office for assistance.

Are there virtual screenings available?

Yes. A selection of films is available for online streaming during the festival. These are accessible to ticket holders and pass owners with a special login. Streaming access typically lasts 48 hours after the scheduled premiere.

Can I submit my film to the Denver Film Festival?

Yes. Submission windows open each January and close in June. Visit the “Submit a Film” section on the Denver Film website for guidelines, fees, and deadlines.

Is the festival accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes. All venues are ADA-compliant, with accessible seating, audio description, and open captioning available for select films. Contact the accessibility team in advance to arrange accommodations.

How do I get involved as a volunteer?

Volunteer applications open in August. Roles include ushering, box office support, and event coordination. Volunteers receive a festival pass and exclusive perks. Apply via the “Volunteer” page on the website.

Conclusion

Visiting the Denver Film Festival is more than a cultural outing—it’s an immersive journey into the heart of contemporary storytelling. From the quiet intensity of a documentary about climate change to the uproarious laughter of a local comedy, each film carries a piece of the human experience. The festival’s strength lies not only in its curated selections but in the community it fosters: filmmakers and audiences, students and veterans, locals and visitors—all united by a love of cinema.

By following the steps outlined in this guide—planning ahead, using the right tools, respecting the space and the art—you transform from a spectator into an active participant in this living, breathing celebration of film. You don’t just watch movies; you become part of their story.

Whether you’re drawn by the thrill of a world premiere, the insight of a filmmaker’s voice, or the simple joy of sitting in a dark theater with strangers who become friends, the Denver Film Festival offers something unforgettable. Prepare well, arrive with curiosity, and let the stories move you.

Next November, when the lights dim and the opening credits roll, you won’t just be visiting Denver—you’ll be home.